Venezuela |
Background: | |
Venezuela was one of three countries that emerged from the collapse of Gran Colombia in 1830 (the others being Ecuador and New Granada, which became Colombia). For most of the first half of the 20th century, Venezuela was ruled by generally benevolent military strongmen, who promoted the oil industry and allowed for some social reforms. Democratically elected governments have held sway since 1959. Hugo CHAVEZ, president since 1999, seeks to implement his "21st Century Socialism," which purports to alleviate social ills while at the same time attacking capitalist globalization and existing democratic institutions. Current concerns include: a weakening of democratic institutions, political polarization, a politicized military, drug-related violence along the Colombian border, overdependence on the petroleum industry with its price fluctuations, and irresponsible mining operations that are endangering the rain forest and indigenous peoples. | |
Nationality: | |
noun: Venezuelan(s) adjective: Venezuelan | |
Ethnic Groups: | |
Spanish, Italian, Portuguese, Arab, German, African, indigenous people | |
Languages: | |
Spanish (official), numerous indigenous dialects | |
Religions: | |
nominally Roman Catholic 96%, Protestant 2%, other 2% | |
Population: | |
28,047,938 (July 2012 est.) country comparison to the world: 45 |
Major Cities - Population: | |
CARACAS (capital) 3.051 million; Maracaibo 2.153 million; Valencia 1.738 million; Barquisimeto 1.159 million; Maracay 1.04 million (2009) |
Statistics | |
Percent Urbanization | 93 % |
Total People Groups | 64 |
Unreached People Groups | 4 |
Region | Central and South America |
10/40 Window | No |
Official National Language | Spanish |
Primary Religion | Christianity |
Percent Christian Adherent | 83.8% [1] |
Percent Evangelical | 10.6% [2] |
Country Progress Level | 3.2 |
Persecution Ranking | Not ranked (1=High to 50=Low OD) |
Human Development Index | 0.696 (0=Low to 1=High UN) |
ClassesEvents | RevivalCulture | NewsFeatures | |
Power Course Live Interactive Virtual Learning Monday, December 9, 2024 - Guest Instructor Joshua Khachadourian |
What is the baptism of the Holy Spirit? It is the coming of the kingdom of God. It is Christ taking over in a life. No more do I live unto myself-that is over with! Now, thank God, according to His eternal purpose, He has taken over. More» |